Superb, early 20th century 4”x14”, solid mahogany shell, Super-Ludwig Dance model snare drum. This is an extremely rare WOOD Shell 4”x14” “Super Ludwig” snare drum from c. 1927 as shown in the attached 1927 Ludwig catalog. This is an early version of this popular model snare drum. The 10 tube lugs are the non-countersunk version dating the drum to pre 1927. However prior to 1927 snare guards were not offered. They were added to the catalog in 1927 and sold as a drum accessory. The snare count for the earliest Super Ludwig’s was 12 strands that was quickly changed to the common standard of 10 strands. This drum came with the standard 10 strand version, original snare guards, and the pre-1927 non-countersunk lugs conforming our datin og late 1927 or early 1928. All hardware is original to the drum with the exception of the extension arm and thumb screw which have been replaced with our reproductions. The natural color of the mahogany shell is a beautiful dark brown color. The shell shows some wear with minor dings although nothing that compromises the wood or the overall appearance. The shell is perfectly in round so modern heads fit and tune easily on the drum. The original clear lacquer finish on the shell was rough so the lacquer was removed and a new coat of clear lacquer was applied to protect the shell for another 90 years. The 4”x14” size in an all wood, solid mahogany shell is exceedingly rare in the “Super Ludwig” model. We have seen only two other examples of this drum in many years of collecting and playing vintage drums. Currently the drum has new plastic heads top and bottom (Remo & Evans) with adjustable gut/wire snares. The instrument sounds great and would serve very well as a sensitive orchestral snare drum or as a collectable.
General Characteristics | |
Model | Dance |
Era | 1900-1928 |
Condition | Excellent |
Extra Holes or Modifications | Reproduction extension arm |
Date | 1927 |
Hardware Finish | Nickel |
Drum Characteristics | |
Color Group | Natural Wood |
Shell Size | 4" x 14" |
Hardware Type | Tube Lugs |
Shell Construction | Solid Mahogany |
Lug Count | 10 |
Shell Finish | Mahogany |
Badge Type | Brass Oval |